1967 Ford Fairlane 500

Description

Full-sized performance was still spelled "Fairlane" in 1967. This beautifully presented '67 Fairlane 500 hardtop offers more space inside than a comparable Mustang, a more formidable presence on the road, and just as much performance from its 289 cubic inch V8.

Wearing code M Wimbledon White, this striking Fairlane conceals its size with great styling that dominated the NASCAR tracks in the mid-1960s. Even the factory called it a "fastback," although its hardtop profile is more traditional than the name would imply. It's likely that the paint is original, but that also means that those giant quarter panels, the doors, and even the front fenders are original Ford steel. It's not perfect, of course, but there's an honesty to this car that's quite appealing. You could argue that a paint job would make this car a spectacular machine but with today's emphasis on originality, that might be a mistake. Either way, it's a great-looking car that attracts a lot of attention. The vinyl top gives it a bit of formality and all the chrome and trim is in good condition, including the impossible to replace rear window, which remains clear and unscratched. Frankly, it's more than a little unusual to find a Fairlane this well preserved.

The preservation and quality continues inside, where a black vinyl interior provides brilliant contrast to the white paint. We're not quite sure if it's been restored or if some parts are original, but the good news is that it all looks uniform, so nothing stands out as either too nice or too deteriorated. The wide bench seats are comfortable and supportive, the door panels look great, and we're pretty certain that the carpets are newer simply because they look too good to be 50 years old. The factory gauges cover the basics but they're in good condition and everything works as it should. That steering wheel is one of the cooler pieces we've seen in any '60s car and it gives the big Fairlane a racy feel. Factory A/C is a great option and thanks to an R134a refrigerant upgrade, it works like it should. The trunk is truly massive and shows what we believe to be the original mat and a full-sized spare tucked in there up front.

The C code 289 under the hood was standard equipment, but the Fairlane hardtop was still fairly light, so performance is lively. Nicely maintained and ready to enjoy, it starts almost as quickly as you can turn the key, and has a great small block Ford idle that is easy to love. Ford Blue paint covers the air cleaner and valve covers as it did when it was new, although it's showing some signs of age. However, it's all factory stock, delivering reliable performance with a great V8 soundtrack accentuated by a new dual exhaust system. A C4 3-speed automatic is a willing dance partner, with crisp downshifts and imperceptible upshifts, and the bulletproof 8-inch rear will outlive us all. The chassis is original and not detailed, but like the rest of the car, it shows signs of conscientious ownership throughout its life. Factory wire wheel covers and whitewall radials add to the traditional luxury look.

Think of the Fairlane as Ford's version of the Chevelle, and you know how popular they are. This one runs and drives great and comes with a bunch of paperwork to back up its southern heritage. Call today!